Statement by President Mbeki on the Outcome of the Elections
in Haiti President Thabo Mbeki, today, Saturday 18 February 2006, joined
world leaders in commending the people of Haiti on the successful outcome of the
recent Presidential election. "South Africa is of the firm view that the
outcome of the elections is indeed an expression of the democratic will of the
people of Haiti. "In this regard we extend our warmest congratulations
to Rene Preval as the President-designate of Haiti as well as to all the contestants
in the election. "We commend efforts made by the United Nations working in
conjunction with Caricom in helping to create a climate conducive for the people
of Haiti to exercise their democratic rights without fear or favour, despite difficult
challenges and obstacles. "Accordingly, we express the conviction that
the new leadership of Haiti will seize this opportunity to work with all segments
of Haitian society in building national unity, reconciliation, justice, peace
and stability as a basis for sustainable development in their country. "We
can say, without fear of contradiction, that the entire peoples of Africa and
indeed the African diaspora, working in concert with Caricom, stand ready to assist
the people of Haiti in their efforts to build a peaceful, stable, just and prosperous
Haiti. "We dare not fail!" A CALL TO THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY "We
appeal to the international community to remain seized with the situation in Haiti
to ensure the consolidation of the democratic gains. "We are convinced
that Haiti can only succeed in its endeavour for nation building, reconciliation,
peace, justice and stability to the extent to which the international community,
working in consultation with Caricom and the Organisation of American States (OAS),will
provide its support and make resources available to the Haitian people,"
concluded President Mbeki. Issued by: Ronnie Mamoepa 082 990 4853 Department
of Foreign Affairs Private Bag X152 Pretoria 18 February 2006
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